Nacewa says no to Fiji – Isa Nacewa has declared himself unavailable for Fiji’s World Cup campaign, citing his wife’s pregnancy as the reason.

Nacewa is one of two Fijian players who have declined a World Cup invitation, with No 8 Jone Qova citing the exact same reason.

‘My pregnant wife and my twin girls are my number one priority at the moment, however I wish the Fiji team and management all the best in the exciting year that follows and especially at the Rugby World Cup,’ Nacewa said. ‘Fiji has a competitive team at the World Cup and one that will go a long way.’

Fiji coach Sam Domoni said he understood the decisions of the two players.

‘Players, like Nacewa and Qovu, need to look after their young family’s welfare and that’s a priority for any player. The decision they’ve made is respected and we now need to move forward as a team with the players we have got.’

Saxons thrash Tonga – England’s second-string side beat Tonga 41-14 on Sunday to secure a place in the Churchill Cup final with Canada. The score said something for the quality of the Tongan side, who may take an embarrassing beating when they meet New Zealand and France at the World Cup in September.

Other results saw Italy A beating Russia 24-19 to secure second place in Group G behind Canada. Russia are in the same group as Italy at the global tournament, but the best chance they have of winning will be when they play the USA.